Nagging Part III

Yesterday I posted of video of me trying to coax my scared to walk on an unfamiliar trail.

I did several things wrong that day. One of which was nagging.
Not only did I repeatedly ask her to move forward, but I also used her name several times. Pet parents should take care to not let their dogs’ names become “background noise.” We should try to use our dogs’ names only when good things are about to happen. We want our dogs to pay attention when they hear their names.

We should never use our dogs’ names when something bad is about to happen i..e “Lupe! get over here right now!” Actually pet parents should never talk to their dogs in that manner anyway. But if you must be mean to your dog. Don’t use his/her name.

Most folks have nicknames for their pets. When talking about your pet (as in when speaking with family members), try to use that nickname so that the dog’s real name has more meaning to him/her.

Or if you know that your dog’s name has been overused (maybe your dog doesn’t pay attention when her/his name is called), then consider coming up with an “emergency name”- a name that is only used when it is imperative that your dog pay attention to you. You will need to start using the name and providing a treat (or some other desirable reward). Do this often so the dogs learns to associate good things with the name.

Please note that this name does not mean “come” but it does mean pay attention i.e. “Lupe! Come!” or “Lupe. Leave it” or Lupe. Drop it”